HEARING - Russia's Imperial Identity (US Helsinki Commission)
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Russia’s war of territorial conquest and genocide in Ukraine is rooted in years of unrestrained authoritarianism and imperialism. The scale of Russia's physical brutality and the rhetoric perpetuating it brings the imperial nature of both contemporary and historical Russia into stark relief. Unlike European colonial empires which were forced to relinquish territory and atone for the sins of empire in the twentieth century, Russia has yet to experience a similar reckoning.
Because Russia did not interpret the collapse of the Soviet Union as an end to its centuries-long imperial project and was not held accountable for its crimes, the cruel legacy of Moscow’s cultural and political domination of ethnic minorities within and beyond Russia’s borders continues to haunt the region. Until Russia’s government and society confront this dark past, Russia will continue to make war on its neighbors, repress minorities within its borders, and extend its adventurism even further abroad.
This hearing will examine the history of Russian colonialism and its current manifestations, especially how language and myths of empire continue to enable Russian atrocities today. Witnesses will further discuss how best to support and elevate marginalized voices seeking political and cultural representation and decolonization.
The following witnesses are scheduled to testify:
1. Dr. Botakoz Kassymbekova, Assistant Professor in Modern History, University of Basel
2. Philip Obaji Jr., Correspondent, The Daily Beast
3. Timothy Snyder, Richard C. Levin Professor of History, Yale University
4. Dr. Maria Vyushkova, Buryat activist and scientist
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